A €3 billion government-to-government agreement was signed in Tel Aviv on Monday morning, formally launching Greece’s most significant air-defence procurement programme.
The new air and missile defence network is expected to become fully operational within 35 months, with deliveries and individual layers entering service gradually.
Four systems form the new network
The architecture of the new defence network is based on four systems using Israeli technology.
David’s Sling: Alongside the Patriot system, it will provide the long-range component of Greece’s air defences, with an operational range reaching or exceeding 150 kilometres.
Barak MX: The flexible system, which is already used by Cyprus, offers a range of between 35 and 150 kilometres. Its battle computer automatically selects the appropriate type of munition.
Spyder: Combined with upgraded Hawk missiles, it will provide close protection and point defence at ranges of up to 50 kilometres.
ELM-2084 radar: The advanced AESA radar will guide the systems and connect directly to Greece’s central surveillance network.
Full deployment within 35 months
Greek National Defence Minister Nikos Dendias said the schedule provides for the entire network to become operational within 35 months.
Deliveries will be completed in stages, allowing the different layers of the system to enter service successively.
Greek and Israeli agencies sign contracts
The contracts were signed during a special ceremony by Greece’s General Directorate for Defence Investments and Armaments (GDAEE), under the Ministry of National Defence, led by Major General Ioannis Bouras.
Israel was represented by the Directorate of International Defence Cooperation, known as SIBAT, and MAFAT, the Israeli authority responsible for defence research and technological development and the counterpart of the Hellenic Centre for Defence Innovation.
Source: CNA
